Wherever one might happen to travel in the world, despite political or even religious differences, the vast majority of people really are the same and want the same things: peace, a good life, and a better life for their children than what they themselves have had.
I've been having some Life Issues here at home, and have been trying to remind myself - and my boys - that as contrary as it might seem, the day is lifted just by the simple act of being kind to someone else. A complete stranger. Seriously. Hold a door open for someone and give them a smile. They'll appreciate and smile back, and it will make the day all that much better.
And then celebrate by petting a dog and the day continues to improve. It's hard to be sad when there's a dog with wag. (I need to make that a t-shirt)
I think you need to coin that phrase! It's hard to be sad when there's a dog with wag. Absolutely brilliant!
Do it!!
I absolutely agree that there is so much the same in the world of people. No matter where I have been, there seems to be the same basic needs, it just shows up in different ways. I think my world shattered with 9/11 because I could not grasp that kind of hatred. I did not understand where this all came from, this feeling of wanting to decimate another. Like you, I believed that reaching out to touch my fellow man could change the world.
I still believe that my day is better by doing for others, and I think that there is no changing my thoughts on that. I can see firsthand how much good it does, not only to myself but eventually to the people that you reach out to. It is hard to ignore someone who consistently is nice to you. Besides, it still makes my heart feel good. You are an exceedingly good father, understanding more about teaching young people how to set their Arrow straight. I wish you everything good in life, because you certainly deserve it. Have an awesome day! And thank you, always, for stopping by.